Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo says his administration remains fully committed to protecting autistic children from stigmatisation and discrimination in the state.
Okpebholo said this in Benin on Thursday during a celebration of the achievements of an autistic artist and cyclist, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, who is currently riding from Enugu to Lagos to raise autism awareness.
Tagbo-Okeke holds a Guinness World Record for the largest painting.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Prince Kassim Afegbua, assured parents and guardians of autistic children that he would not tolerate any form of discrimination against them.
He thanked Tagbo-Okeke’s parents for nurturing his talent.
He also lauded the athlete’s determination and what he described as the “Edo spirit of not giving up, no matter the situation you find yourself in, but to keep pushing”.
“Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is a condition that affects the brain.
“This young man has already made the Guinness World Record for the largest painting and is now riding to create awareness about autism,” he said.
He noted that Tagbo-Okeke’s story is one of determination and achievement, adding that he embodies the Edo spirit, which believes in achieving anything one sets out to do.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, said that “autistic individuals are special children who need care, not curses or stigma”.
“Autism is not a disease but a disorder, and the public must understand that these children have learning and communication challenges. Do not laugh at them; rather, support them,” he said.
It was reported that the event was attended by students, parents, government officials and cycling coaches.
